Tips for carrying groceries on your bike: Hint, you don’t need a $5K cargobike

Getting groceries with a bicycle is an eco-friendly and healthy way to shop for your household essentials. However, it can be challenging to carry all of your groceries on a bike without the right gear. Here are some tips on the best ways to get groceries with a bicycle, including how to pack and different pannier and basket options.

Invest in a sturdy bike

The first step to getting groceries with a bicycle is to make sure you have a sturdy bike. You want to make sure that your bike is in good condition and has a sturdy frame and tires that can handle the weight of your groceries. Consider an upright or Dutch-style bike, which is more comfortable and easy to pedal. Or, of course, an e-bike will make things easier also.

Get a rear rack and panniers

A rear rack is a great investment as it can hold a lot of weight and can easily attach panniers or bags to carry your groceries. Panniers are especially helpful as they can distribute the weight evenly and prevent any strain on your back. When packing your panniers, try to put the heaviest items closest to the rack to avoid throwing off your balance. You can also use bungee cords or straps to secure items and prevent them from moving around.

When it comes to panniers, there are a few different options to choose from. Some panniers are designed to be waterproof, which can be helpful if you live in an area with frequent rain. Other panniers have multiple compartments or pockets, which can be helpful for organizing your groceries. Some popular pannier brands include Ortlieb, and Thule.

There are also plenty of grocery specific bike bags such as this one from Blackburn.

When shopping for panniers, make sure to find something with a sturdy hook to the rear rack as a cheaper plastic version might break off quickly with the weight of groceries. Also, a carrying handle at the top of the bag to take them directly into the store while you shop is a good option. Just put them in the grocery cart.

Consider a front basket

If you have a bike that can support a front basket, this can be a great option for carrying smaller items like fruits and vegetables. You can also attach a small basket to your handlebars to hold items like your wallet or keys.

Rear basket

A rear basket can be a convenient and affordable option for carrying groceries. It can be attached to the back of the bike with hooks or straps and can hold a decent amount of weight. However, it is important to note that rear baskets can affect the balance of the bike, so it’s important to distribute the weight evenly. There are plenty of stylish baskets around to add to your bike, but also plenty of more utilitarian, sturdy baskets that might make more sense if groceries is the primary goal, like this one.

Rear trunk

In addition to rear panniers, and baskets, there are also large bags that sit directly on top of the rear rack called trunk bags. They are easy to use, often coming with carry handles, and don’t disturb the balance of the bike, too much. The capacity is somewhat limited but can be used alone or in conjunction with other bags or baskets. Here is a colorful example from Po Campo available at REI.

Milk carton basket

A milk carton basket is a creative and eco-friendly option for carrying groceries. It can be made by cutting off the top of a plastic milk carton and attaching it to the bike with zip ties or string. It’s a great way to reuse a common household item while also being practical for carrying groceries.

Backpack

If you don’t have a lot of groceries or if you’re carrying smaller items, a backpack can be a good option for carrying groceries. Make sure to choose a backpack that is comfortable to wear and has enough space to fit all of your groceries. In terms of comfort, we suggest a hip belt and chest strap, which will keep the pack from bouncing around causing potential breakage to groceries, and back pain.

Use a cargo bike or trailer

If you regularly buy large or heavy items, consider investing in a cargo bike. Cargo bikes have a large carrying capacity and can be equipped with boxes or bags to transport your groceries. Another option for carrying groceries on a bike is a cargo trailer. Cargo trailers can be attached to the back of your bike and can carry a lot of weight. They are especially helpful for carrying large items like furniture or appliances.

Use reusable bags

Bring reusable bags to pack your groceries in. You can easily pack these bags in your panniers or attach them to your handlebars. Make sure to bring enough bags to carry all of your groceries.

Use a bike lock

Make sure to bring a bike lock with you when you go shopping. Lock your bike to a sturdy object when you park it and keep an eye on it while you are inside the store.

Take breaks

If you are carrying a lot of weight, take breaks every now and then to rest your muscles and rehydrate. Make sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during hot weather.

Getting groceries with a bicycle can be a great way to stay active and reduce your carbon footprint. And it’ll make you feel good by doing good. With the right gear and a little planning, you can easily transport your groceries on your bike. Remember to always prioritize your safety when riding your bike, and follow traffic laws and regulations. Happy shopping!